Maintaining Motivation

Welcome to the second half of 2008!  How are you doing with the goals you set for the beginning of the year?  Did you vow to lose weight, start an exercise program, get organized, jump start your career, or improve a particular relationship?  No matter what the goal, if you are on track:  Congratulations and keep up the good work!

If you’re like many, you probably started out strong at the beginning of the year and slowly drifted back into old behavior patterns.  The goal you were so excited about at the beginning of the year is a long forgotten memory.  Or is it?  Keep reading for some tips on how to re-motivate yourself to reach that goal.

1. Write down all the reasons why you want to achieve your goal.  Be very specific.  For example, I want to exercise because I want to have more energy, feel better, keep my bones strong, look better in my clothes, keep up with my kids, keep my weight down, feel stronger, be more flexible, keep my heart healthy, etc.

2. Make copies of your list and post it where you can read it several times a day.  For example, post your list on the refrigerator, the bathroom mirror, tuck a copy in your wallet or purse, or make your list your screen saver on your computer.

3. Collect the materials you need to be successful.  Do you need to shop for special food, purchase a new pair of gym shoes, or gather the names of some training programs?

4. Set aside time to work on your goal.  For example, if you want to lose weight, you have to schedule time to plan your meals, shop for your food, prepare your meals, and exercise.  Again be very specific about what you are going to do and when in order to achieve your goals.

5. Talk to yourself when your motivation wanes.  Use the same voice in talking to yourself that you would use to talk to a good friend.  Remind yourself of how much better you will feel in the long run if you stick to your goal.  Remember the reasons why you set your goal.  Tell yourself that you can do it.   

6. Reward yourself for working on your goal.  Treat yourself to a new magazine, a nice bubble bath, a trip to the driving range, or anything that would be rewarding to you.

7. Be honest with yourself.  Are you making excuses for not sticking to your plan?  If so, be tough on the excuses and get back on track, but be easy on yourself.  There’s no need to beat yourself up for occasionally getting off track.  Just get back on track as soon as you can.

8. Find a coach, mentor, or buddy who will work with you to keep you on track.  Having someone to work with will make it easier for you to maintain your motivation. Good luck in sticking with your goal for the second half of 2008!